Apple’s new iPhone is showing support for TD-LTE bands 38, 39 and 40, the bands China Mobile is using for its LTE network.
Supporting those particular bands is further evidence suggesting that an iPhone partnership could finally be coming for Apple and China Mobile, the world’s largest carrier.
Compounding proof came today with the Wall Street Journal reporting that Apple had received regulatory approval from the Chinese government to operate devices on China Mobile’s 3G and 4G networks.
Apple has an event in China scheduled today. If the event is indeed an announcement of a partnership with China Mobile, it would be the first time the giant carrier has offered the iPhone. Given China Mobile’s 740 million subscribers, it would be a huge boost for Apple.
China Mobile is rapidly pushing forward with its TD-LTE network. In June, the carrier issued a tender offer for suppliers to provide equipment for more than 200,000 base stations. The accelerated network build, coupled with device subsidies, has hurt the bottom line at China Mobile.
Filed Under: Carriers, Devices
